September 27, 2012

Nagda – Rajasthan’s Rural Gem

Nagda is a beautiful small village, one of the quick day trips from Udaipur. It’s a place that silently brags about Rajasthan’s ethnic legacy and Aravallis’ enchanting beauty. I must confess that I always pictured Rajasthan (way before I visited this magical land) as a dry land with just forts and deserts to its credit. I thought there would be nothing ‘green’ to soothe my eyes. But I was wrong!

Also read: 9 Reasons Why My Itchy Feet Love Rajasthan

Although I knew Udaipur was known to be the city of lakes, it was Nagda that unveiled something that I had not expected at all – calm and quiet treasures of nature without a speck of dust!

Nagda is one of the offbeat villages of Rajasthan – one of the significant destinations when it comes to some of the most unique temples in India. My visit to Nagda was interesting particularly because it was not on my itinerary.

Nagda – Rajasthan’s Rural Gem

Saas Bahu temple complex

I had actually set out to visit the a very popular Eklingji Temple – a complex of 108 temples and shrines; however, to my bad luck, it was locked that day for some reason. But my disappointment turned into a pleasant surprise. My cabby-cum-guide was sweet enough to show me another interesting temple – a 10th century, Saas Bahu Temple.

Being curious is always rewarding. Isn’t it?

Although I am not really a temple hopper that much, I enjoy exploring ancient, sort of abandoned temples once in a while. I simply detest the idea of visiting temples that have commercial frills to them. Saas Bahu Temple is my kind of temple – mystical, charming and really ancient.

Now what really intrigued me was the name “Saas Bahu”. I asked the chap who took care of the temple, “Why Saas Bahu?” He told me that the two main temples in the complex are located very close to each other; therefore, the name Saas Bahu (Mother-in-law and Daughter-in-law) came into being. Well, it’s quite interesting.

Also read: Rajasthan – Its Culture And Clout

The temple is in its ruined state, which is what makes it more appealing. It is situated in the midst of stark natural vicinity. I found the place especially delightful because of my love for nature and old architecture – the place turned out to be a lethal combination of both.

The rustic village life

I was surprised to discover so much of untouched beauty around Udaipur. It felt great to witness the rustic life around me – children taking bath in the pond, shepherds minding their flock, rural men and women engaged in their daily chores. It was all so fascinating for me!

Another village of Rajasthan, which is a peaceful rural gem is Pali.

The moment I spotted this man with a turban, I knew I had to persuade him to pose for a photograph. He agreed without any apprehension, except for a short trip to lavatory. After freshening up, he was all set for a photo shoot with me. The atmosphere, the setting and the air – all of it was so unfamiliar to me, the city dweller. Well, of course. It was a new experience for me, and quite a thrilling one!

Moments of serenity at Bagela Lake

Besides my smug feeling of taking portraits of a typical Rajasthani village man (it was my first SLR trip), I savored the feeling of serenity that I enjoyed at Bagela Lake. It’s a calming experience to just sit by the lake without any thought.

“Be a curator of your life. Slowly cut things out until you’re left only with what you love, with what’s necessary, with what makes you happy.” – Leo Babauta

The first capital of Mewar

I was also told by my cabby-cum-guide that Nagda was the early capital of Mewar, which was established in the 7th century. Nagda has been through real hard times – it was struck down by the invader Altamash in the 12^th century.

A few temples that remained are Saas Bahu, Eklingji and the Jain temple of Adbudji. I have to say that even the remaining temples speak volumes about the regal past of Nagda.